Bridge-Builder Talk, with Scott Shigeoka
Belonging-Builder Talk by Scott Shigeoka
We are bombarded with a larger public story that insists we are hopelessly divided, a narrative that increasingly suggests a type of fatalism about fragmentation, that our political disagreements may be irreconcilable, or that humans are “naturally” wired toward creating an us and a them, that perhaps we are better off living separately and not engaging with the other who threatens our story and place in the world.
Throughout his work, Scott Shigeoka has set out to tell another story: that we yearn to connect and people desire to find ways to bridge. Scott has been translating research into ideas that promote well-being and connection, including in his best-selling book Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World; through his work at the Greater Good Science Center, where he spearheaded the Bridging Differences Playbook; in working with musician David Byrne on a series that showcases ways in which We Are Not Divided; and through his groundbreaking courses at the University of Texas at Austin.
In this opening talk, Scott will discuss the values and practices, such as deep curiosity and the willingness to stay open to each other’s story, that will help us hold onto the inherent humanity of all of us, not by denying our differences or what makes us unique, but by recognizing that co-creating together is the only way to a sustainable and shared future where we all belong.
Location: Calvin Simmons Theatre
Scott will also be doing a book signing in the Concourse on Friday, April 25 during the lunch hour. Look for signs announcing time and location.
Links:
Bridging Differences Playbook.
